Message from the Administrator

Marion C. Blakey, Administrator, FAA

The Federal Aviation Administration's mission is to provide a safe, secure, and efficient aerospace system for the nation. To accomplish this mission, the agency supports academic and industry partnerships to address our research needs and to leverage our R&D budget.

Through the Air Transportation Centers of Excellence (COEs) for aviation research, the FAA supports the sharing of knowledge and is positioned to receive and transfer emerging aviation technologies to the federal and private sectors. Participating universities benefit through funded research programs that enrich the educational opportunities for students by linking their learning to real world experiences.

Since 1992, the FAA has created significant partnerships with world-class academic institutions and their industry, state, and local government affiliates. By establishing major research centers throughout the country, the FAA strengthens internal research capabilities while creating a pool of trained professionals for the next generation.

Our Air Transportation Centers of Excellence form a cumulative repository of knowledge and hasten the application of scientific advancements benefiting the aviation community and the flying public. In this way, the agency assures that the U.S. air transportation system remains the best in the world.